Cabbage soup doesn’t sound like the kind of thing you daydream about, right? But hear me out. This Vegan Cabbage Soup Recipe hits different. It tastes cozy, nourishing, and bold in all the right ways. And the best part? It comes together with budget-friendly ingredients you probably already have sitting in your kitchen.
Ever wondered why humble vegetables like cabbage, carrots, celery, and tomatoes can create a soup that tastes like a warm hug? You’re about to find out. 🙂
I’ve made this soup more times than I’d like to admit (FYI, cabbage obsession is real), and IMO, this is the easiest and most flavorful version you can make. So if you’re craving something hearty, healthy, and ridiculously comforting, you’re in the right place.
Why I Love This Vegan Cabbage Soup
I reach for this recipe whenever I want a meal that checks all my boxes: easy, wholesome, flavorful, filling, and low effort. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a recipe that lets you toss everything into one pot and walk away for a bit?
Ever felt like you wanted something healthy without feeling like you’re “eating healthy”? That’s exactly what this soup delivers. It tastes rich even though it uses the simplest ingredients. And no, we’re not relying on coconut milk or cashews for creaminess—this soup is fresh, vibrant, and veggie-forward.
Why you’ll love it too:
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free
- Loaded with fiber but still light enough for seconds
- Meal-prep friendly (it tastes even better the next day!)
- Budget-friendly AF
- One-pot recipe = minimal dishes = happiness
- Bold flavors without needing fancy ingredients
That last one matters more than anything if you’re cooking on a busy weeknight, right?
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Vegan Cabbage Soup Recipe
Before we jump into the magic of simmering, let’s break down the simple ingredients that make this recipe shine. You don’t need anything fancy—just wholesome pantry staples that turn into straight-up comfort food.
đź’š Fresh Vegetables
- 1 medium green cabbage, chopped
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
🍅 Tomatoes + Liquids
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (adds depth)
🌿 Seasonings That Bring It All Together
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (trust me, this is essential)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red chili flakes, optional for a kick
✨ Optional Add-Ins (Customize Like a Pro)
Want to level it up? You can throw in:
- Zucchini (for extra bulk)
- White beans (for protein)
- Potatoes (for heartiness)
- Kale or spinach (added at the end)
Ever wondered why cabbage soup sometimes tastes bland? It’s because people skip the good stuff—the aromatics and spices. With this combo, your soup tastes layered, warm, smoky, and ridiculously good.
How to Make This Vegan Cabbage Soup (Step-by-Step)
This recipe stays beginner-friendly, but it still packs enough flavor to impress. You’ll create a soup that tastes like it simmered all day—even though it only needs about 35–40 minutes.
Let’s break it down into a simple flow.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a large pot over medium with a splash of olive oil. Add:
- Onion
- Carrots
- Celery
Cook until the veggies soften. Then stir in the garlic.
Why sauté first? Because this step builds flavor. Ever notice how raw onions taste completely different from golden, softened onions? This is where the magic starts.
Step 2: Add the Cabbage + Pepper
Add:
- Chopped cabbage
- Bell pepper
Give everything a good stir. Let the cabbage wilt slightly. You’ll see the volume shrink—don’t panic, that’s exactly what you want.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasonings
Now pour in:
- Diced tomatoes
- Vegetable broth
- Tomato paste
Then add your spices:
- Smoked paprika
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Cumin
- Salt + pepper
Ever wondered why smoked paprika works so well here? It gives the soup a depth that tastes like it simmered over a fire (minus the actual fire hazard).
Step 4: Let It Simmer
Bring the pot to a boil. Reduce to a gentle simmer for 25–30 minutes.
The flavors will marry, the veggies soften, and the broth becomes rich and aromatic.
If you want it chunkier, simmer less. If you want it softer and more stew-like, simmer longer. Total freedom.
Step 5: Taste + Adjust
Always taste before serving. Maybe you want more salt? A pinch of sugar to balance the acidity? A splash more broth? Adjust it to your liking.
Cooking is personal. I always tweak mine—no shame.
Why This Vegan Cabbage Soup Actually Tastes Amazing
Cabbage soup gets a bad reputation, but honestly, it deserves a redemption arc. So what makes this one so good?
The Flavors Stay Bright and Balanced
The combination of:
- Tomato
- Smoked paprika
- Aromatics
- Herbs
creates a layered flavor that feels way more complex than the ingredient list suggests.
It Uses Simple Vegetables, But Doesn’t Taste “Basic”
Cabbage becomes incredible when it cooks down. It softens, sweetens, and soaks up flavor like a champ.
Ever noticed how cabbage goes from “meh” to “wow” once it hits heat? It transforms into a silky, tender veggie that gives the soup bulk without heaviness.
It’s Budget-Friendly Comfort Food Done Right
You get a massive pot of soup using inexpensive ingredients. No fancy vegan replacements. No overpriced pantry items. Just real, nutritious food.
And IMO, that’s the kind of cooking more of us need, especially on busy nights.
Tips to Make the Best Vegan Cabbage Soup
Here are the top tips that elevate your soup from “good” to “I can’t stop eating this.”
1. Use Smoked Paprika, Not Sweet Paprika
Smoked paprika gives a subtle “fire-roasted” depth. Sweet paprika won’t do that job.
2. Add Beans or Potatoes If You Want It Heartier
Want a full meal in a bowl? Add:
- Cannellini beans
- Chickpeas
- Small cubed potatoes
These turn the soup into a satisfying, protein-packed lunch or dinner.
3. Let It Sit Overnight
Ever wondered why soups taste better the next day? The flavors deepen and become richer. This cabbage soup is no exception.
4. Add Greens at the End
Spinach or kale adds nutrients without overpowering the flavor. Add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
5. Adjust the Broth Ratio
If you prefer:
- A brothier soup → add more broth
- A stew-like consistency → simmer longer
Choose your vibe.
Vegan Cabbage Soup Variations You’ll Love
Want to shake things up? Here are fun variations without losing the soul of the recipe.
🔥 Spicy Cabbage Soup
Add:
- Red pepper flakes
- Jalapeño
- A splash of hot sauce
Perfect if you love heat.
🍠Cabbage + Sweet Potato Soup
Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and make the soup extra cozy.
🥔 Rustic Cabbage & Potato Soup
Add diced potatoes and thyme for an old-school, countryside-style bowl.
🍜 Asian-Inspired Cabbage Soup
Add:
- Ginger
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Mushrooms
- A drizzle of sesame oil
Totally different flavor profile—totally delicious.
🇮🇹 Italian Cabbage Soup
Add:
- White beans
- Italian herbs
- A splash of balsamic vinegar
It tastes like minestrone’s calmer cousin.
Serving Suggestions (Because You Deserve a Complete Meal)
This soup tastes great on its own, but if you want to elevate it, try pairing with:
- Crusty sourdough bread
- Toasted garlic ciabatta
- A bright green salad
- Vegan grilled cheese (don’t judge until you try it!)
Ever dipped grilled cheese into cabbage soup? Sounds weird, tastes incredible.
How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat This Vegan Cabbage Soup
Meal prep lovers—this recipe was made for you.
Storing
- Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Freeze up to 3 months.
- Let it cool first—your freezer will thank you.
Reheating
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat.
- Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens.
Easy, convenient, and perfect for batch cooking.
FAQ: Vegan Cabbage Soup Recipe
Is cabbage soup good for weight loss?
It’s naturally low-calorie and high-fiber, so yes—it can support weight management. But eat it because it’s delicious, not just because it’s “healthy.”
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage works perfectly, but savoy or napa cabbage makes the soup softer and sweeter.
Can I add protein?
Yes! Add:
- White beans
- Lentils
- Chickpeas
I add white beans when I want extra creaminess.
Final Thoughts: Why This Vegan Cabbage Soup Needs to Be in Your Weekly Rotation
I love this Vegan Cabbage Soup Recipe because it hits that sweet spot between comfort food and healthy eating. It tastes warm and hearty without feeling heavy. And it uses simple vegetables in a way that feels intentional and nourishing.
Ever crave a recipe that makes you feel good and tastes amazing? This is it.
Whether you meal-prep, cook for your family, or just want something cozy on a chilly night, this soup fits right in. And IMO, once you make it once, you’ll keep coming back to it whenever you want something easy, healthy, and incredibly flavorful.
